They come in different shapes, colors, and sizes. Some are sporty, others glamorous and some are truly exotic. No, I am not talking about cats or dog but rather about identification collars.
Identification collars are not just a fashion statement; they could actually save your pet's life. You try to provide a safe environment for your pet. But in the flick of a whisker, a door can be left ajar, you might forget to close the backyard gate, or a disaster such as an earthquake, fire or flood may separate you from your pet.
To optimize the chances that your pet will be safely returned, it should always wear a collar with an identification tag. Yes, even the ones that never go outside.
I personally own two cats, bogie and divot that only venture outdoors under my supervision. Like many cat owners, I am concerned that their collars could accidentally get snagged and lead to injury. The solution to this dilemma is really very simple. Purchase a breakaway collar that is properly fitted to your cat. You don't want it to be so tight that they can't breathe, but not so loose that they get their mouth snagged in it. The proper fit is achieved when you are able to get a finger or two easily under the collar when they are in a relaxed position
But what if you just don't like the looks of a collar or your pet adamantly refuses to wear one. What if you own a snake, turtle or bird, then what can you do? Technology to the rescue. Technology in the form of microchips is just what the doctor ordered.
Microchips are small computer chips that your veterinarian can simply inject under the skin of your pet. No anesthesia is needed. The sensation is similar to receiving a vaccination. The chips are approximately the size of a grain of rice. There is no energy source to wear out; nothing to replace. Chips are made of a safe biocompatible material. And each chip has its own unique number that identifies your pet as yours. Their cost is quite reasonable. Now, it is not like the security system for that police can activate on a stolen vehicle. Your veterinarian or animal control officer can't cruise your neighborhood looking for your lost pet. If your pet is taken to a veterinary office, emergency clinic or animal shelter, the chances are excellent that it will be scanned for a chip. Then it is just a matter of contacting the chip registry and giving you a call.
Tattoos are another form of identification. The procedure requires anesthesia and determining the identity of the registry can be difficult.
There is no one way to guarantee that if your pet is ever lost that it will be returned to you. It is always best for you to use multiple forms of identification. The good Samaritan who finds your pet wandering on the street won't have a scanner but if it is wearing a tag, you can quickly get a call. Collars can slip off or be taken off. This makes microchips the perfect backup system to collars. .
Your pet depends on you to protect and love it. Think of its identification collar as an outward symbol of your affection.
If your pet is not micro chipped, get it done today and pick up a new collar while you are at it. Rhinestones optional.
